Work With Trusted & Experienced
Washington Public Adjusters That Work For You!
100% Contingency Based. We Don't Get Paid Unless YOU Get Paid!*
*Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees not allowed in Louisiana.
Don’t Settle For Less!
Get The HIGHEST & Most FAIR Settlement Amount ... That You Are Legally Entitled To ... From Your Insurance Claim!
Get a free on-site inspection & insurance policy evaluation from one of our expert public claims adjusters!
Work with highly trained & vetted Washington public adjusters who are state-licensed, bonded, and trained to handle all residential or commercial insurance claims, big or small!
Public Claims Adjusters Network (PCAN) member public insurance adjusters in Washington offer technical and detailed expertise that has satisfied countless homeowners, business owners, condominium associations, property management companies, and HOAs.
Our network members have years of experience dealing with insurance companies. Many of our network’s public adjusters also have previous backgrounds in construction and/or insurance, giving them a significant advantage in quickly securing the highest claim settlement compensation for their clients.
They know what to look for, what repairs actually cost, and what the insurance company’s adjusters tend to ignore (and hope you don’t know about!).
Consultations are always:
- Friendly
- Free
- No-Obligation
- 100% contingency-based In Nearly Every State
… meaning your public adjuster doesn’t get paid, unless you get paid!*
PCAN public adjusters take pride in providing superior customer service, and clear & friendly communication. Please fill out our contact form to schedule a no-obligation consultation with one of our network’s licensed & verified Washington public insurance adjusters today!
*Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency Fee Not Permitted By Law In Lousianna. By law, services in Kansas are only available for commercial claims.
Request A Free Consultation!
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*Some Services May Not Be Available In All Areas. Contingency fees are not permitted by law in Louisiana. Public Claims Adjusters Network (PCAN) is not a Public Adjusting Agency. PCAN is a private network of stringently vetted, state-licensed, bonded, and PCAN Verified public adjusters with members Nationwide. Your contact request will be matched to one of our verified member public adjusters serving the Washington community, to ensure the highest quality of service & care.
Higher Claim Payouts When Using A Public Adjuster According To Landmark OPPAGA Study!
Contingency Based. We don’t get paid, unless you get paid!
*Contingency fees not permitted by law in Louisiana.
Why Hire A Public Adjuster In Washington?
Washington Public Adjusters Help Get You The HIGHEST & Most Fair Settlement Amount (That You Are Legally Entitled To) From Your Homeowners, Roofing, Condo & HOA, & Business Insurance Claims!
Get a Free On-Site Inspection & Insurance Policy Evaluation From One Of Our Expert Washington Public Claims Adjuster Members Today!
- Save You Time & Help Speed Up The Claim Process
- Help Alleviate Stress & Walk You Through The Whole Process
- Negotiate With The Insurance Company & Make Sure You Get The Highest Settlement Possible*
- Prepare & File All The Necessary Documents, And Handle All The Necessary Follow-up's
*Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees not allowed in Louisiana.
What Our Network Of Licensed Washington Public Insurance Adjusters Bring To The Table
Washington Insurance Policy Claims Specialists
PCAN member public insurance claims adjusters have years of experience in claims & reviewing coverages. As such, they understand the numerous types of policies and endorsements you may experience when dealing with your claim in Washington. Their expertise allows them to find & utalize the various coverages your policy may have, and in many cases, inform you of coverage & clauses you may not even know about.
Advocates For Washington Homeonwers Insurance Policy Holders
PCAN member public claims adjusters advocate for your rights as the policy holder. They ensure that the clients’ rights are being protected throughout the claims process, and make sure you get all the benefits you are entitled to based on your policy. Public adjusters are there with you every step of the way!
Experts In Seen & Unseen Damages
PCAN member public insurance claims adjusters in Washington have years of experience identifying damage, and in most cases, come from professional construction, roofing, and insurance backgrounds. As such, they are able to find & isolate damages that you may not even know to look for, or know would/should be covered by your policy! They also incorporate the latest assessment techniques & technology when conducting their property inspections.
Expert Claims Negotiators
Settlement negotiation is critically important when it comes to the claims process. Public adjusters in Washington know how the insurance companies think, and come to the negotiation table fully prepared to defend & enforce your rights. PCAN member public insurance adjusters have the expertise and experience in claims negotiations to ensure that you get what you are actually entitled to under your policy ... not what the insurance company tells you that you are, based on their own interests. When the insurance company plays hardball or puts up a fight, your public adjuster won't be afraid to get in that ring and fight them for what's rightfully yours!
Our Expert Public Adjusters Work Exclusively For You To Ensure You Get The Highest Settlement Possible From Your Property Insurance Claim After A Disaster.
The Homeowners Insurance Claims Recovery Process In Washington
Washington state-licensed public claims adjusters are fluent in “Insurance Policy Jargon”, and will guide you through the entire property insurance claims process, while they fight to make sure you get the highest & most fair compensation possible for your claim!
View 7-Step Claims Recovery Process Map
Step #1
Make Sure Your Family Is Safe
When disaster strikes, the priority is to make sure your family is safe. Always have an emergency bag!
Step #2
Contact A PCAN Public Adjuster In Washington
Contact one of the PCAN verified and state-licensed public insurance claims adjusters to schedule an appointment for them to come out & meet with you to inspect the damage.
Step #3
Thorough Review Of Your Policy
Your public insurance claims adjuster will conduct a comprehensive review of your policy, note any coverage restrictions, coinsurance requirements, limitations, and review additional options that may be available to you.
Step #4
Create A Claims Strategy That Works For Your Specific Goals & Needs
Your public claims adjuster will discuss what is most important to you when it comes to your claim, then create & tailor the right claims strategy to take care of your family.
Step #5
We Take Care Of All Insurance Related Paperwork, Negotiations, & Follow Up.
Once you have agreed on a strategy, your public adjuster will:
- Meet with insurance company adjusters & personnel at the loss/damage location.
- Agree to the scope of damages & make sure that they are including all the damages in the scope, as well as clearly deciding on what should be repaired vs. replaced.
- Prepare a detailed reconstruction estimate.
- Prepare a detailed inventory of personal property.
Step #6
Negotiations & Final Settlement
Your public adjuster will work to make sure you receive the highest settlement possible under your specific insurance policy.
Step #7
Restoration | Reconstruction | Relocation
Your public claims adjuster will negotiate with the insurance company to ensure that you can achieve your specific goals. Whether that’s full or partial restoration, rebuilding your property, or a full-relocation.
(Click To Expand Infographic)
Our Expert Public Adjusters Work Exclusively For You To Ensure You Get The Highest Settlement Possible From Your Property Insurance Claim After A Disaster.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Washington Public Adjusting
What Are Washington Public Adjusters, & What Do They Do?
Washington Public adjusters are licensed insurance professionals who work independently to defend policy holders during the insurance claims process. According to the National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA) the professionals act as advocates for homeowners to ensure that their interests are protected in working with insurance companies.
The role of public adjusters has become more significant in recent years, specifically as insurance claims grow more complicated. A landmark study conducted by the Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability (OPPAGA) found that policyholders who used public adjusters received settlements that were up to 800% higher than those who dealt with claims independently.
Public adjusters provide comprehensive services throughout the claims process. They conduct detailed assessments of the damages, and prepare and file all necessary documents, and handle all communication with insurance companies. This professional support significantly reduces the time and stress involved with filing claims, allowing policyholders to concentrate on recovering.
Working mostly on a basis of contingency fees which typically range between 10 and 20% of the final settlement, public adjusters are rewarded for securing the maximum possible amount of compensation to their customers. The fee structure varies according to the complexity of the claim, state regulations, and required resources.
They have vast expertise of insurance policies, building codes, and costs for construction. They leverage this expertise to:
- Speed up the claims process
- Document and evaluate damages thoroughly
- Navigate complex policies
- Negotiate directly with insurance carriers
- Make sure you are in compliance with filing deadlines and additional policy requirements
Research has clearly shown that professional representation during the process of settling claims often leads to more comprehensive settlements as well as quicker claim resolution times. Public adjusters’ understanding of insurance regulations and industry practices can help avoid common pitfalls that could otherwise hinder or delay settlements.
Disclaimer: *Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees are not permitted in Louisiana.
Will My Settlement Be Larger If I Hire A Washington Public Adjusting Company?
Research and analysis show that employing a public insurance adjuster can dramatically increase policyholder settlements for claims. According to a landmark research study conducted by the Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability (OPPAGA), policyholders who utilized public adjusters received settlements up to 800% more than those who handled claims independently.
Public adjusters in Auburn, Washington serve as licensed professionals who advocate exclusively for policyholders during the claim process. The National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA) states that these state-licensed professionals offer detailed claim management services, including detailed property damage documentation and interpretation of policies and settlement discussions with insurance companies.
The value of representation by a professional becomes particularly evident in the final settlement figures, as professionally managed claims generally result in more thorough damage assessments and more accurate estimates of losses.
Public adjusters streamline the claims process by:
- Managing all documentation and correspondence with insurance companies
- Conducting detailed assessment of the damage to property
- Preparing comprehensive claim submissions
- Directly negotiating with insurance carriers
- Accelerating the settlement timeline
- Ensuring compliance with policy requirements and deadlines
Most public adjusters operate on a basis of contingency fees, typically ranging between 10 and 20 percent of the final settlement amount. This fee structure aligns the interests of the adjuster with those of the policyholder, as their compensation is contingent on securing a favorable settlement.
A Public adjuster’s expertise often proves invaluable in complex claims scenarios, where technical knowledge of building codes, construction costs, and insurance policy provisions can have a significant impact on settlement outcomes.
Their professional oversight helps ensure no insured damages are left unnoticed and ensures that claims are properly assessed according to current market conditions.
Disclaimer: *Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees are not permitted in Louisiana.
How Much Do Washington Public Adjusters Charge?
Public adjusters typically operate on a contingency fee basis, charging between 10% to 20% of the final insurance claim settlement. According to the National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA), these fees vary based on claim complexity, state regulations, and required resources. The contingency fee structure ensures that public adjusters’ interests align directly with those of their clients, as their compensation depends on securing favorable settlements.
Before engagement, policyholders should carefully review fee arrangements and contract terms, ensuring clear understanding of the service agreement. According to the Insurance Information Institute (III), public adjusters must maintain state licenses and adhere to strict professional standards, providing an additional layer of consumer protection. Their role becomes particularly valuable in complex claims where specialized knowledge can significantly impact settlement outcomes.
A landmark study by the Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability (OPPAGA) demonstrated that policyholders who engaged public adjusters received settlements up to 800% higher than those who handled claims independently. This significant difference underscores the value these professionals bring to the claims process.
Disclaimer: *Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees not allowed in Louisiana.
When Is It Too Late To Hire A Washington Public Adjuster?
Navigating the insurance claims process requires careful timing and professional expertise. Understanding when to engage a Washington public adjuster can significantly impact claim outcomes and settlement amounts. According to the National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA), policyholders can benefit from hiring a public adjuster at any point during an active claim, though earlier engagement typically yields better results.
Key timing considerations include:
Statute of Limitations:
- Each state maintains different deadlines for filing insurance claims
- Claims must be initiated within these legal timeframes
- Public adjusters can assist with existing claims, even if initially filed independently
Documentation Requirements:
- Public adjusters help organize and prepare comprehensive claim documentation
- They can recover or reconstruct missing documentation
- Professional documentation improves claim validity and settlement potential
Claim Status:
- Active claims benefit from professional representation
- Denied claims may be reopened with proper documentation
- Disputed settlements can be renegotiated
Public adjusters provide valuable services throughout the claims process Including:
- Expedited claim processing through professional management
- Expert negotiation with insurance carriers
- Complete documentation preparation and submission
- Regular communication with insurance companies
- Stress reduction through professional claim handling
- Maximum settlement potential through experienced representation
Disclaimer: *Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees not allowed in Louisiana.
When Should You Hire A Public Claims Adjuster In Washington?
Complex insurance claims often require experienced professionals to effectively navigate. Public insurance adjusters, state-licensed professionals who work exclusively on behalf of policyholders, can significantly impact claim outcomes and settlement amount.
Several scenarios warrant hiring a public adjuster:
- Extensive property damage
- Claims involving multiple coverage types
- Disputed claims or partial claim denials
- Complex documentation requirements
- Time-sensitive situations requiring immediate attention
Public adjusters streamline the claims process by:
- Conducting comprehensive damage assessments
- The preparation and filing of all documentation required
- Managing communication with insurance companies
- Settlement negotiations on behalf of the policyholders
- Ensuring compliance with policy terms and deadlines
Public adjusters particularly benefit policyholders by:
- Reducing stress by utilizing professional claim management
- Expediting settlement processes
- Giving objective damage assessments
- Ensuring comprehensive documentation
- Utilizing industry-specific expertise to ensure fair settlements
Disclaimer: *Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees not allowed in Louisiana.
Can I File My Insurance Claim Myself In Washington?
While policyholders are entitled to make insurance claims on their own, research from industry experts suggests this strategy may not provide ideal results.
The main challenges with self-filing include:
- Complex documentation requirements and policy interpretation
- Time-intensive communication with insurance representatives
- Risk of overlooking covered damages or benefits
- Potential undervaluation of claims by insurance companies
- Limited-to-zero negotiation experience with insurers
licensed public adjusters provide substantial advantages during the process of settling claims:
-
- Professional Documentation and Assessment – Public adjusters thoroughly document damages, prepare comprehensive claims files, and manage all paperwork required, making sure that nothing is missed.
- Time and Stress Management – These professionals manage all communications with insurance companies so that homeowners can focus on recovery while speeding the claims process.
- Expert Negotiation – With extensive knowledge of regulations and rules governing insurance policies, public adjusters deal directly with insurance companies to negotiate fair settlements.
- Cost-Effective Service – Public adjusters typically work on a contingency fee basis, usually ranging from 10-20 percent of the final settlement amount, to ensure that the interests of the policyholder are protected.
The National Association of State Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) recognizes public adjusters as licensed professionals who represent policyholders’ interests during the claims process. Their expertise can be particularly beneficial in complex claims or when significant damages are involved.
Industry statistics consistently demonstrate that professional representation by state-licensed public adjusters leads to better results for the policyholders, with quicker processing times, and more complete settlement packages.
Disclaimer: *Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees not allowed in Louisiana.
In Washington, Can My Contractor Represent Me Against My Insurance Company?
While many contractors offer negotiations with insurers this strategy can have serious risks and restrictions. According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), contractors do not have the legal authority and know-how to be official representatives in insurance claims negotiations.
This limitation could dramatically affect the outcome of a case and may compromise your rights as a insurance company.
Departments of insurance in each state oversee licensed public adjusters, who receive extremely specialized training, undergo Federal background checks, and require special licensing from the state to operate. They also have the legal authority to represent the policyholder in order to protect and protect their right … legal authority that contractors don’t possess … which makes them the legal alternative to contractor representation.
Public Adjusters specialize in the interpretation of insurance policies, assessing and documenting damage, and working with insurance companies to ensure fair settlements.
Public adjusters provide several distinct advantages, which include:
- Expert claim documents and filing
- Professional negotiation with insurance carriers
- Comprehensive damage assessment
- Accelerated claim processing
- Reduce stress by a complete claim management
The National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA) emphasizes the fact that public insurance claims adjusters must hold professional licenses and adhere to strict ethical standards. This provides another layer of consumer protection not available with the representation of contractors.
For complex claims, public adjusters’ expertise in policy interpretation, documentation demands, and negotiation strategies often can be invaluable, thereby avoiding costly errors and denials of claims that could arise from the use of contractors in negotiations.
Disclaimer: *Some Services are not available in all Areas. Contingency fees not allowed in Louisiana.
I Already Settled My Claim, But It Wasn’t Enough Money To Cover The Damages. Is It Too Late To Get More?
When insurance settlements prove insufficient to pay for property damage, policyholders have a range of legal options to seek additional compensation, even following the initial settlement of claim.
According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), NAIC recommends that policyholders be sure to carefully review the terms of their settlement and related documents prior to accepting the final settlement payment.
The timing and the circumstances for the pursuit of additional compensation are important factors, as most insurance policies have specific timeframes for dispute resolution or appeals, generally between one and two years following the settlement date.
Licensed public insurance claims adjusters are vital in re-assessing settlement claims and identifying previously missed damages. Public adjusters carry out thorough property assessments, as well as document any additional damage, and deal with insurance companies on behalf of policyholders.
Key steps for pursuing additional compensation are:
- Document newly discovered damages
- Review policy terms and settlement agreements
- Collect additional evidence and estimations
- Consider professional representation from a state-licensed public claims adjusters
The National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA) insists that public adjusters are often able to identify missed damages and policy provisions which allow for the need for additional compensation. Their expertise in the interpretation of policies and the valuation of claims proves particularly valuable when challenging settled claims.
Insurance policyholders must act promptly when they discover insufficient settlement amounts, since delay may hinder their ability to collect additional compensation. When utilizing a public adjuster’s services, the claim review and negotiation process typically progresses more efficiently than policyholder-directed efforts.
Disclaimer: *Some Services Not Available In All Areas. The use of contingency fees is not permitted in Louisiana.
Why hire a Public Insurance Claims Adjuster In Washington if the insurance company already sent an adjuster?
The decision to employ a state-licensed public insurance claims adjuster, even when an insurance company has assigned its own adjuster dramatically affect the final outcome of an insurance claim.
Although the insurance company adjusters work for their employer’s interests … public insurance claims adjusters serve as dedicated advocates for policyholders. The National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA) highlights that these state-licensed & regulated professionals work independently, ensuring fair settlements of claims and complete policies are interpreted.
Public adjusters streamline the claims process by managing the documentation and conducting comprehensive damage assessments, and handling all communication with insurance companies. This professional intervention typically accelerates claim resolution and decreases homeowners administrative burdens.
The value of public adjusters isn’t only limited to monetary benefits. These professionals offer professional guidance during the claim process, providing the complexities of policy and ensuring that every damage is properly documented and valued.
They make precise damage estimates, gather the necessary evidence, and deal directly with insurance carriers in order to get the best settlement results.
Insurance claims are complex and time-consuming and require a professional’s assistance, which makes their representation valuable during significant loss events. Public adjusters’ expertise in negotiation and policy interpretation usually results in more extensive settlements that account for evident and hidden losses.
Disclaimer: *Some Services Not Available In All Areas. Contingency fees are not permitted in Louisiana.
Can My Insurance Company Cancel My Contract If I Use a Public Adjuster In Washington?
No. Insurance companies cannot legally cancel policies solely because policyholders hire public adjusters to represent their interests during the claims process, according to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC). Policy cancellations are strictly governed by contractual terms and state regulations, typically limited to specific circumstances such as non-payment of premiums or material misrepresentation.
The National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA) emphasizes that hiring a licensed public adjusters is a protected right of policyholders. These professionals serve as advocates during insurance claims, handling documentation, negotiations, and communications with insurance carriers to expedite settlements.
The Insurance Information Institute (III) confirms that policyholders maintain the right to professional representation during claims processes, and insurers must honor this right while adhering to fair claims handling practices.
Disclaimer: Some Services Not Available In All Areas.
An insurance terms glossary provides insight to policyholders of critical terms and definitions commonly used to clarify various aspects of coverage and claims.
Key concepts include such terms as Actual Cash Value Vs. Replacement Value, a method for determining compensation based on replacement costs minus depreciation, and Additional Living Expenses (ALE), which cover necessary living costs when a home is uninhabitable.
For example, understanding your home insurance declaration page, common homeowners damage deductibles for various types of property damage, the general policy exclusions standard in many homeowners insurance policies, can bring much-needed awareness & clarity to policyholders of potential basic insurance terms that may affect their claim outcomes. For example, knowing which key documents (such as photographs and receipts) are essential for substantiating claims.
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Our Expert Public Adjusters Work Exclusively For You To Ensure You Get The Highest Settlement Possible From Your Property Insurance Claim After A Disaster.
Discover How Washington Public Claims Adjusters Can Get You More From These Types Of Property Damage Insurance Claims
Our Expert Public Adjusters Work Exclusively For You To Ensure You Get The Highest Settlement Possible From Your Property Insurance Claim After A Disaster.
Find A PCAN Public Adjuster In Washington Near You In One Of These Cities:
Click To Expand & View List Of Cities Served
- Public Adjusters Auburn, Washington
- Public Adjusters Bellevue, Washington
- Public Adjusters Bellingham, Washington
- Public Adjusters Blanchard, Washington
- Public Adjusters Burien, Washington
- Public Adjusters Everett, Washington
- Public Adjusters Federal Way, Washington
- Public Adjusters Kennewick, Washington
- Public Adjusters Kent, Washington
- Public Adjusters Kirkland, Washington
- Public Adjusters Lakewood, Washington
- Public Adjusters Lowell, Washington
- Public Adjusters Marysville, Washington
- Public Adjusters Olympia, Washington
- Public Adjusters Pasco, Washington
- Public Adjusters Redmond, Washington
- Public Adjusters Renton, Washington
- Public Adjusters Richland, Washington
- Public Adjusters Richmond Beach, Washington
- Public Adjusters Sammamish, Washington
- Public Adjusters Seattle, Washington
- Public Adjusters Shoreline, Washington
- Public Adjusters South Hill, Washington
- Public Adjusters Spokane, Washington
- Public Adjusters Spokane Valley, Washington
- Public Adjusters Tacoma, Washington
- Public Adjusters Tri-Cities, Washington
- Public Adjusters Vancouver, Washington
- Public Adjusters Whidbey Island, Washington
- Public Adjusters Yakima, Washington
Our Expert Public Adjusters Work Exclusively For You To Ensure You Get The Highest Settlement Possible From Your Property Insurance Claim After A Disaster.
More About Washington
Washington | |
---|---|
State of Washington | |
Nickname: “The Evergreen State” (unofficial) | |
Motto(s): Alki (Chinook jargon for ‘By and By’) | |
Anthem: “Washington, My Home” | |
Location of Washington within the United States | |
Country | United States |
Before statehood | Washington Territory |
Admitted to the Union | November 11, 1889 (42nd) |
Capital | Olympia |
Largest city | Seattle |
Largest county or equivalent | King |
Largest metro and urban areas | Seattle |
Government | |
• Governor | Bob Ferguson (D) |
• Lieutenant Governor | Denny Heck (D) |
Legislature | State Legislature |
• Upper house | State Senate |
• Lower house | House of Representatives |
Judiciary | Washington Supreme Court |
U.S. senators | Patty Murray (D) Maria Cantwell (D) |
U.S. House delegation | 8 Democrats 2 Republicans (list) |
Area | |
• Total | 71,362 sq mi (184,827 km) |
• Land | 66,544 sq mi (172,587 km) |
• Water | 4,757 sq mi (12,237 km) 6.6% |
• Rank | 18th |
Dimensions | |
• Length | 240 mi (400 km) |
• Width | 360 mi (580 km) |
Elevation | 1,700 ft (520 m) |
Highest elevation | 14,411 ft (4,392 m) |
Lowest elevation (Pacific Ocean) | 0 ft (0 m) |
Population (2024) | |
• Total | |
• Rank | 13th |
• Density | 103/sq mi (39.6/km) |
• Rank | 25th |
• Median household income | $94,600 (2023) |
• Income rank | 7th |
Demonym | Washingtonian |
Language | |
• Official language | None (de jure) English (de facto) |
Time zone | UTC−08:00 (Pacific) |
• Summer (DST) | UTC−07:00 (PDT) |
USPS abbreviation | WA |
ISO 3166 code | US-WA |
Traditional abbreviation | Wash. |
Latitude | 45°33′ N to 49° N |
Longitude | 116°55′ W to 124°46′ W |
Website | wa |
ASN | |
Washington, officially the State of Washington, is a state in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. It is often referred to as Washington state to distinguish it from the national capital, both named after George Washington (the first U.S. president). Washington borders the Pacific Ocean to the west, Oregon to the south, Idaho to the east, and shares an international border with the Canadian province of British Columbia to the north. Olympia is the state capital, and the most populous city is Seattle.
Washington is the 18th-largest state, with an area of 71,362 square miles (184,830 km), and the 13th-most populous state, with a population of just less than 8 million. The majority of Washington’s residents live in the Seattle metropolitan area, the center of transportation, business, and industry on Puget Sound, an inlet of the Pacific Ocean consisting of numerous islands, deep fjords and bays carved out by glaciers. The remainder of the state consists of deep temperate rainforests in the west; mountain ranges in the west, center, northeast, and far southeast; and a semi-arid basin region in the east, center, and south, given over to intensive agriculture. Washington is the second most populous state on the West Coast and in the Western United States, after California. Mount Rainier, an active stratovolcano, is the state’s highest elevation at 14,411 feet (4,392 meters), and is the most topographically prominent mountain in the contiguous U.S.
Washington is a leading lumber producer, the largest producer of apples, hops, pears, blueberries, spearmint oil, and sweet cherries in the U.S., and ranks high in the production of apricots, asparagus, dry edible peas, grapes, lentils, peppermint oil, and potatoes. Livestock, livestock products, and commercial fishing—particularly of salmon, halibut, and bottomfish—are also significant contributors to the state’s economy. Washington ranks second only to California in wine production. Manufacturing industries in Washington include aircraft, missiles, shipbuilding, and other transportation equipment, food processing, metals, and metal products, chemicals, and machinery.
The state was formed from the western part of the Washington Territory, which was ceded by the British Empire in the Oregon Treaty of 1846. It was admitted to the Union as the 42nd state in 1889. One of the wealthiest and most socially liberal states in the country, Washington consistently ranks among the top states for highest life expectancy and employment rates. It was one of the first states (alongside Colorado) to legalize medicinal and recreational cannabis, was among the first states to introduce same-sex marriage, and was one of only four states to have provided legal abortions on request before Roe v. Wade in 1973. Washington voters also approved a 2008 referendum on the legalization of physician-assisted suicide, making it one of 10 states to have legalized the practice.
Our Expert Public Adjusters Work Exclusively For You To Ensure You Get The Highest Settlement Possible From Your Property Insurance Claim After A Disaster.